Creating a New PDF Document from Microsoft Word 2007

The majority of the PDF files on the web are probably created in Microsoft Word. The good news is that it is possible to create accessible PDF files in Microsoft Office, as long as the following requirements are met:

The file must be accessible. That includes providing alternative text for images, proper headings, appropriate link text, etc. For more information, please read the tutorials on Microsoft Word.

• Office 2000-2003 users must have Acrobat installed, as well as the add-in.
• Office 2007 users must have either Acrobat or the Microsoft PDF add-in installed.

The file must be exported correctly. If a file is created by printing to PDF, it will not be correctly tagged.

Creating the PDF Document in Microsoft Word 2007

Create or open the document in Office 2007.

Format Word document per the Word tutorial.

Once the Word document is formatted, choose "Adobe "PDF" and "Preferences"

On "Settings" tab, check Bookmarks, Links, and Enable Accessibility and Reflow.  Not available in Acrobat 07: Fully Functional and Quick and Simple PDF.

On the "Security" tab, if Permissions are applied, check enable text accessfor screen reader devices for the visually impaired.

On "Word" tab, check Convert cross-refences, Convert footnote, and Enable advanced tagging.

On "Bookmarks" tab, check Convert Word Headings ... and set indent levels.

Now save your document as an accessible PDF.  You have two options:

Select Create PDF from the Acrobat menu.

 I

f If you haven't already saved your Word document, save it now.

Now save as PDF.

OR

Save as Adobe PDF from the Office button.

 

 

If you have questions or would like assistance, please Contact ITSS.

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